In contrast to the vibrant colors of fresh produce, rich textiles, neon street signs, and intricately patterned ceramics, the soft, neutral palette of the buildings is what I found most captivating. I love the subtlety of the shifts in color and the distressed concrete walls. In the first photo, the entire green facade is made up of tiny square mosaic tiles. The simple geometry of the window designs also provides interest to an observant viewer. Variety is achieved with different types of glass, small shifts in frame design, curtains, and light. I could have asked Jeremiah to photograph every building and window…

A view from our apartment in Istanbul.

Rather than endure a torturous 24 hour direct flight to Indonesia, we paused in Turkey for a few days to catch our breath, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Turkey is a transcontinental country with a small part in Europe and a larger portion in Asia. The culture in Istanbul reflects this unique geography; it is a true blend of European and Middle Eastern influences.

Recently graduated and newly engaged, I created this blog with my fiancé, photographer Jeremiah Sullivan, to document the experience of our travels throughout Indonesia. Having obtained our degrees, this feels like the ideal time to take a few months off to explore a different part of the world. Traveling to an unfamiliar place offers the opportunity to experience life with heightened senses and enhanced perception. As artists, Jeremiah and I are keen observers of the world around us and this sensory rush is invaluable in terms of the inspiration it gives. It ignites in us a desire to respond and create. We are so thrilled to be able to share the beautiful sights, delicious food, our encounters with locals, and the astounding natural wonders this country has to offer. Stay tuned…